Seaside Auto Repair

We know you're busy folks, but taking care of your car is super important. Today, we're going to talk about something that might surprise you: rodents and your car. Yep, those little critters can cause big problems if you're not careful. You see, rodents like mice and rats love to cozy up in warm places during the colder months. And what's warmer than the engine bay of your car? Unfortunately, they don't just hang out there for the warmth. They like to nibble on things, like wires and hoses. And that's bad news for your car. Here's why it's crucial to get your car checked at least every six months: 1. Prevention is Key: By getting your car checked regularly, a mechanic can spot any signs of rodent activity before it becomes a big problem. They can look for chewed wires, nests, and other telltale signs. 2. Avoid Costly Repairs: If rodents damage your car's wiring or other important parts, it can be expen ... read more

Hey there, fellow drivers and car enthusiasts! Welcome to Wayside Garage's latest blog post. Today, we're diving into a crucial aspect of maintaining your vehicle's health: cleaning the carbon buildup from your engine's fuel system. At Wayside Garage, we understand the importance of keeping your engine running smoothly and efficiently. Carbon buildup is a common issue that can occur over time, especially in older vehicles or those with high mileage. It can lead to reduced fuel efficiency, decreased power, and overall poor engine performance. But fear not! We're here to help you tackle this problem head-on. Let's break it down in simple terms: What is Carbon Buildup? Carbon buildup occurs when fuel additives, oil vapors, and other deposits accumulate in the engine's combustion chamber and fuel system. Over time, these deposits form a layer of carbon that can interfere with the proper functioning of your engine. Why is it a Problem ... read more

Hey there, car lovers! Stacey here from Wayside Garage in beautiful Seaside, California. Today, I want to talk about the different ways you can pay when you visit us. We want to make it super easy for you! At Wayside Garage, we know that paying should be simple and safe. That's why we offer a bunch of different ways to pay. Let's check them out: 1. Cash and Cards: You can pay with cash, just like always. We also take credit cards like Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover. 2. Express Pay: This is like using Zelle or Venmo, but even safer because it's blockchain encrypted. All you do is link your bank account and pay directly. It's perfect if you can't come by during our regular hours or need to get in and out in a jiffy. 3. Autopass Card by CFNA Bank: If you need a credit option, try our Autopass card. It works like a credit card and gives you a six month same as cash offer. You can a ... read more

Ever hopped into your car and noticed that distinct smell of gasoline? It can be a bit concerning, right? No worries! Let's talk about why your car might smell like gas and what could be causing it. When your car smells like gas, it's important to pay attention because it might signal a problem. Here are some reasons why: 1. Fuel Leaks: Any leaks in your car's fuel system, like from hoses or the fuel tank, can let gas escape and cause a noticeable smell. 2. Engine Misfires: When your engine doesn't burn fuel correctly, it can produce a gas smell. This might happen due to faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, or other engine components. 3. Incorrect Air and Fuel Ratios: Sometimes, worn-out or defective ignition and fuel components can mess with the balance of air and fuel in your engine. This can lead to a gas smell lingering in your car. 4. Evaporative System Issues: Modern cars have systems to capture and manage gas ... read more

Are you finding yourself stranded with a dead car battery more often than you'd like? If so, you're not alone. Understanding why your car battery keeps dying can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run. Let's explore some common culprits and solutions to keep your car powered up and running smoothly or check out this video!  1. Parasitic Draw: Ever left something plugged into your car overnight, only to find your battery drained the next morning? This could be due to a parasitic draw issue. It happens when certain electrical components in your car continue to draw power even when the engine is off. Make sure to unplug devices and check for lights that may be staying on unnecessarily. 2. Charging System Problems: Your car's alternator and voltage regulator play crucial roles in keeping the battery charged while you drive. If either of these components mal ... read more